Things to do in Cairo

If you anticipate needing a hand with your heavy suitcase or a complicated connection, hire a Cairo Airport staffer, who, for just $50, will greet you upon arrival and guide you through immigration, baggage claim, and customs clearance.

For those looking to arrive at their hotel in style, use this car service (the shuttle bus name is a bit of a misnomer—it’s a high-class car company). Pick-up spots are found at all three terminals, and drivers will bring travelers from the airport to any destination in Egypt.

Though self-service check-in is less than surprising for U.S. travelers, it’s big news in Egypt. At Cairo Airport’s kiosks, passengers heading on to other Egyptian cities can check in and print boarding passes without waiting in line.

Youngsters looking for fun before takeoff should head to the play areas in every departure terminal. Look for plastic seesaws and playhouses from American toy company Step 2, touch-screen video games in Terminal 3, and a climbing wall outside the food court in Terminal 3.

Craving a hot cup of tea and crumpet? Take a seat on the tufted leather couches at the airport’s English Lounge. Are pasta and a glass of Chianti more your thing? You’ll find bliss in the blue-and-white Italian Lounge.

Located at the airport’s front entrance, near Orouba Road, this elaborate outdoor patio is meant to conjure up visions of the ancient Egyptian city of Heliopolis, or Sun City. Don’t Miss: The desert gardens and deep-blue pools.